Reducing Your Risk for Periodontal Disease

Periodontal disease is a serious oral health issue that can lead to significant complications with your teeth and gums. Without the proper care, gum disease might cause infections in your gums that can spread to the rest of the body and cause you to lose one or more of your teeth. Use this guide to reduce your risk for dealing with periodontal disease:

Practice Good Oral Hygiene
One of the most important elements of a healthy mouth is a good oral hygiene routine. You should brush your teeth twice a day with a soft-bristled toothbrush. Floss once a day to dislodge any food or plaque that might be stuck between your teeth and your gums. If you are diligent about brushing and flossing your teeth, you can significantly reduce your risk for dealing with even the most basic form of gum disease.

Eat a Healthy Diet
Certain foods and beverages can increase your risk for developing periodontal disease. If you want to ensure that your mouth remains healthy, it is important to pay attention to what you eat. You should avoid foods and drinks with a lot of sugar. You should also limit your intake of processed foods. Instead, try to eat a diet full of lean protein, healthy fats, and plenty of fruits and vegetables. You should also make an effort to drink a lot of water and get enough calcium each day to keep your mouth clean and your teeth strong.

Stop Smoking
If you smoke or use other tobacco products, you have a much higher risk of developing periodontal disease. You should make an effort to stop smoking to reduce this risk and completely avoid gum disease and the problems it causes.

Visit Your Dentist Regularly
Even though a good oral hygiene routine can help you lower your risk for periodontal disease, it is also important to visit your dentist in Denver twice a year to get deeper cleanings and checkups. Working closely with your dentist is one of the best ways to avoid periodontal disease and to protect your teeth and your gums.